My Favorite Meat Loaf
A hearty meatloaf with savory flavors of sage and onion, perfect for family dinners. Juicy, tender, and satisfying, it pairs well with mashed potatoes or vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut bread into small pieces.
- Pour milk over bread; let stand while mixing the rest of the ingredients, mixing very good.
- Ensure the mixture is well combined; this step is very important.
- After completely mixing the meat, pour the bread mixture into the meat mixture and mix until you see no more bread.
- The mixture will tighten up as you mix.
- Put into a loaf pan and bake for 1 hour at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister meatloaf, consider adding finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the mixture. If you're out of breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oats can be great substitutes. Be sure to let the bread soak in the milk long enough to absorb moisture, creating a tender texture. For added flavor, try mixing in Worcestershire sauce or mustard.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your meatloaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with a rich gravy or ketchup glaze on top. For a lighter option, try a fresh salad on the side. Leftover meatloaf can also be transformed into sandwiches or served with a side of roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a baking dish with a splash of broth or sauce to prevent drying out. Cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of My Favorite Meat Loaf contains roughly 612 calories, with 9g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 766mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe. Just keep in mind that turkey is leaner, so you may want to add a little olive oil or additional moisture to maintain the meatloaf's texture. Seasoning may also need slight adjustments for flavor.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, or even grated Parmesan cheese for a flavor boost. Some people also enjoy mixing in a bit of barbecue sauce or ketchup for a tangy twist.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. You can check this using a meat thermometer. Additionally, the meatloaf should be firm to the touch and no longer jiggly in the center. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing for the best texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).